Colorectal Cancer FAQs

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that originates from the colon or the rectum. Often beginning with non-cancerous polyps, colorectal cancer is characterized by the unregulated growth of cells beginning in the large intestine.

Also commonly referred to as colon cancer and rectal cancer, these cancers are often grouped together because they have a lot of similarities. Both the colon and the rectum make up the large intestine, which is where these types of cancers originate. Additionally, these two types of cancer share similar symptoms, risk factors, and screening methods.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among Americans. Currently, it’s the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women. The American Cancer Society estimates that there are approximately 154,270 new cases of colorectal cancer each year. Fortunately, advancements in screening and heightened awareness have led to a decline in colorectal cancer rates since the 1980s. Even still, if not detected early, colorectal cancer can be fatal. In fact, colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the United States.

Unfortunately, there are often no symptoms of colorectal cancer, particularly in its early stages when it is easily treatable. However, for individuals who do experience symptoms, they may include:

• Blood in stool
• Cramping or abdominal pain
• Diarrhea, constipation, and other changed bowel habits
• Rectal bleeding
• Feeling as though you need to have a bowel movement but aren’t relieved by having one

Because colorectal cancer often leads to significant bleeding in the stool, those with the disease can also develop anemia. Even still, the signs of colorectal cancer are often only detectable after the cancer has progressed. Early screening is crucial for identifying colorectal cancer and promptly treating it while it’s still curable. Once symptoms appear, the likelihood of curing patients with the disease drops to around 50%. In contrast, individuals who detect cancer before symptoms develop have an 80% or higher likelihood of successful treatment. In certain cases, doctors remove polyps before they turn cancerous, preventing the onset of cancer altogether and avoiding extensive surgery.

Detection of colorectal cancer typically begins with screening. There are several tests your provider may use to detect colorectal cancer, including stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonography. Stool tests, as their name suggests, involve examination of your stool to detect abnormalities like blood or altered DNA. Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a test that uses a small, flexible tube inserted into the rectum to check for polyps or signs of cancer. Colonoscopy is a test similar to the flexible sigmoidoscopy that checks for signs of cancer in the rectum and the colon, rather than just the rectum. During colonoscopy, your doctor may also be able to remove polyps found during the procedure. CT colonography is essentially a virtual colonoscopy that utilizes imaging technology to analyze pictures of the colon.

The appropriate treatment for colorectal cancer depends on several factors, including the progression of the disease, location of the cancer, your reaction to medication, and additional considerations. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, clinical trials, among others. To ensure you find a treatment plan that meets your unique health goals, discuss your options with a trained colorectal surgeon.

While colorectal cancer is best prevented with regular screening, you can also reduce your risk of developing the disease by following these guidelines:

• Avoid fatty foods
• Eat high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
• Don’t smoke
• Drink alcohol in moderation

Early screening for colorectal cancer saves lives. The American Cancer Society recommends people begin screening for colorectal cancer starting at age 45. Several factors may also influence your risk for developing colorectal cancer, which can prompt screening earlier than the standard guidelines. These factors include:

• Personal or family history of colorectal polyps or cancer
• Personal history of breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer
• Conditions like chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease

To understand how your individual risk may affect your screening guidelines, talk to a TPMG healthcare provider today about whether you may require additional screening.

Most insurances cover colorectal cancer screening at least partially if you fit the criteria for being screened. You may be asked to pay a deductible or copay for testing. To learn more about whether your insurance covers colorectal cancer screening, contact TPMG Center for Colorectal Surgery.